Jourdan Dunn: "Iman is my most inspiring style icon"

Jourdan Dunn, new face of Selfridges denim, gives Stylist a glimpse into the life of a supermodel

Photo: Selfridges

When Selfridges’ behemoth-like Denim Studio launched in June – a space boasting a staggering 11,000 pairs of jeans and 60 brands – there was only one supermodel with enough edge, charm and power credentials (Jourdan has modelled for everyone from Burberry to YSL Beauty) to front its campaign. The London-born neo-icon indulged us in a game of finish the sentence. Cool barely covers it…

The last thing I bought was… some bleached denim skinnies by Hudson which I got the day we launched the Selfridges campaign – we managed to squeeze in time to shop, obviously.

If I could only wear one outfit for the rest of my life it would be… something streetwear-inspired. Probably skinny jeans, a loose T-shirt and sneakers. Ideally limited edition!

My most inspiring style icon of all time is… Iman. She’s absolutely amazing.

The best piece of fashion advice I’ve been given is… Naomi Campbell once told me to always take snacks on shoots, in case they forget to feed you. It’s proved helpful more than once.

Style to me means… knowing who you are and not following the crowd.

My earliest fashion memory is… being inspired by seeing women like Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks being so successful, they both have a great work ethic and have been very supportive of me.

If I was a piece of clothing I would be… my Givenchy high-tops. A designer sneaker feels like a good way to bring my work and off-duty looks together.

The city with the most inspiring style is… London. I’ve never been anywhere that matches the diversity and energy of the way people dress here.

My favourite hidden gem to go shopping in is… Sur La Table in New York for my kitchen!

The best pair of jeans you can buy in Selfridges are… from the ‘Forever’ collection which Karlie [Kloss] has designed for Frame Denim; a godsend for tall girls. My favourites are the skinny ripped style.

My career highlight so far has been… being part of Italian Vogue’s all black issue in 2008. It was the first time I’d shot with Steven Meisel, who is incredible. The Olympics closing ceremony [she joined Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell on the catwalk] was another moment where I had to pinch myself. Most recently, it was really fun to be part of Selfridges’ Denim Studio where we got party guests to shoot the campaign on their phones – the images felt like a real game-changer.